John Browett quits Monsoon Accessorize

Thursday 19 February 2015 - Veebs Sabharwal

John Browett has stepped down as Chief Executive of Monsoon Accessorize after two years. He is to be replaced by the company’s Financial Director Paul Allen on an interim basis.

The fashion and accessories retailer cites Browett’s decision to leave his position as a chance to “pursue other career opportunities.” Browett is credited for being the front runner of a turnaround at Dixons Retail where he lead the firm as Chief Exec, before being asked to join Apple in 2012 to lead retail operations. He was ousted in less than six months and subsequently joined Monsoon Accessorize in 2013.

Prior to his time with the technology and electronics giants, Browett also served as online boss at Tesco. Despite his grocer experience, it is understood that he will not be succeeding Philip Dalton as Chief Exec at Morrisons.

Allen, who came on board with Monsoon as Financial Director in 2013, will become Chief Executive with immediate effect until a replacement for Browett is found. It’s likely that the retailer will be looking to recruit someone with extensive fashion experience, experience that Allen has as a former Jacques Vert Chief Executive. Peter Simon, Founder of Monsoon Accessorize, said: “We are fortunate to have such a strong leader in Paul, who has a broad experience of retail, international and e-commerce operations, all of which are integral to our growth. We would like to thank John for his hard work over the past two years and his success in building a strong team to take the business forward.”

Browett also commented: “I have enjoyed my time at Monsoon. This is a tremendous business and I wish Paul and the team every good fortune.” Although he is not in line for Morrisons, Browett is being associated with a string of high profile positions.